# How to Configure and Utilize a VPN on Your iPhone
As global government regulations tighten control over accessible content and various streaming platforms increasingly restrict content based on geographic locations, a growing number of individuals are opting for VPNs.
Previously, establishing a VPN was a complex task, but over the past ten years, this process has become remarkably streamlined. Here’s how to configure and utilize a VPN on your iPhone.
## What Purpose Does a VPN Serve?
A VPN, or virtual private network, functions as a private encrypted tunnel for all internet traffic. This means that even your internet service provider cannot monitor which websites you visit when using a VPN to surf the internet.
Historically, the main focus of using a VPN was privacy and security. More recently, individuals are utilizing VPNs to conceal their actual location and look as if they are in a different part of the world, enabling them to bypass local content restrictions. For example, a VPN can be used to access streaming services that are typically restricted in your area. VPNs have gained particular traction in the United Kingdom after new regulations mandated websites to restrict access to adult content unless users verify their identity. Instead of undergoing identity verification, many prefer to use a VPN to seem as if they are accessing from outside the UK, thereby circumventing these limitations.
## Select a VPN Application for iPhone
To use a VPN on your iPhone, the first step is to select a VPN provider. VPN providers differ in server locations, speed, and cost, but generally provide comparable features. Here are some suggested options to keep in mind:
Once you’ve registered for an account with one of the providers, download the relevant app from the App Store onto your device. Sign in to your account within the app. The quick-access VPN settings in the system will now be accessible.
Before activating the VPN on the system level, use the app to configure service-specific settings, like choosing your virtual location. For example, if you’re in the US but want to appear to be in Algeria, select an Algerian server within the app interface. Most applications also have automatic options for ‘Fastest connection’ if you value security over geographic masking.
## How to Activate VPN on iPhone
1. With a VPN app installed, launch the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. A VPN row will show up in the initial group of settings on the main page of the Settings app.
3. Toggle the VPN setting from off to on.
4. When activated, a VPN indicator will briefly display in the status bar. Later, open Control Center to view the VPN icon to verify that the VPN service is still operational.
You can now operate your iPhone as usual. All internet traffic will be routed through the VPN service, guaranteeing that your data remains hidden from unauthorized access.
You might need to force-quit and restart apps like Reddit for geographic detection to take effect. For example, Reddit disables the ‘Anonymous Browsing’ mode if it detects the user is accessing from the UK. However, if you enable your VPN with your server set to another country, then force-quit and restart the Reddit app, the ‘Anonymous Browsing’ feature will be available once more.
The VPN can be deactivated at any moment by returning to Settings and turning off the VPN toggle. You can also delve into advanced features in the dedicated VPN provider app.
Generally, you may prefer not to use a VPN constantly, as they may provide slower connection speeds compared to a direct connection to your home broadband. Nevertheless, iOS simplifies the configuration of a VPN service and allows you to toggle it on and off as necessary. As long as the app remains installed on your device, the VPN toggle will remain in the Settings app.
If you often stream high-definition video or partake in other bandwidth-heavy activities while using the VPN, you may want to explore different providers or servers, as performance can greatly differ based on cost and connection locations.
